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The luxury hotels of India are no secret to the world, swarm of indigenous and international chains offer many hotel options, all geared to provide the ultimate in service. Luxuriate, rejoice and rejuvenate in some of the most exquisite resorts at popular destinations of this vast country that rightfully enjoys the status of a subcontinent. The luxury hotel segment has seen a boom in the last decade leading to many new ones, up-gradation of old ones and restoration of the ancient palaces to bring on platter the finest properties where one can indulge in extravagant experiences forming a lifetime memory!!

Each of the Vilas properties by the Oberoi Group is renowned for the correct combination of breathtaking beauty, luxury and excellent facilities. ‘Vilas’ translated in English means sheer bliss – true to the definition, Udaivilas in Udaipur, Rajvilas in Jaipur, Amarvilas in Agra and Vanyavilas in Ranthambore, are four of the most stunning options in India that have epitomized the concept of hospitality and luxury. These resorts have won several accolades for their world-famous hospitality, unmatched luxury and highest service standards. Complete with lavish rooms, well trained staff, pleasure-seeking swimming pools, indulgent SPAs, magnificent gardens, extravagant fountains, well appointed bars and opulent restaurants serving sumptuous cuisine, they are startling in appearance and unbeatable in their setting. A blissful experience!!

Ananda in the Himalayas is situated in the serene foothills of the mighty Himalayas, surrounded by forests and overlooking the majestic Ganges. It used to be the Vice Regal Palace during the reign of the Maharaja, which has, in the past hosted some of the country’s renowned heads of the state. Now, one can redefine their lifestyle in this SPA resort with traditional wellness techniques and ancient alternative therapies like Ayurveda, Vedanta & Yoga – that heal the mind, soul and spirit. A rejuvenating experience!!

Today’s hotel, The Imperial, New Delhi, is one of the most excellent monuments of Edwin Lutyens’ visualization of the city’s unique grand plan. It is a premium combination of several styles of architecture famous in the Colonial Era like Art Deco and Victorian architecture, making it stand out among the best luxury hotels of the capital and the country. It combines the unsurpassed elegant accommodation and great cuisine to provide an enriching experience!!

There are many business and leisure hotels in and around the Delhi. ITC Maurya in New Delhi is a luxury hotel whose interiors are inspired by the Mauryan dynasty, their art & architecture. It makes available the level of expertise and service in hospitality, needed for an ultimate experience in the capital. Trident in Gurgaon with its opulent interiors, well maintained gardens, courtyards and swimming pool presents a resort-like atmosphere that impresses its patrons. The Oberoi in Gurgaon is the best recent addition, eminent for its customized architecture adding in the element of space, light and greens that provide an exclusive atmosphere to unwind appropriately.

The Leela, Goa offers idyllic charm – Portuguese legacy of Southern Goa, pristine beaches, natural vistas, well-designed interiors and exuding luxury, making it a perfect getaway. The Leela Palace, Delhi, located in the most prominent Diplomatic Enclave of the city, is an illustrious palace-like hotel, breathtaking in terms of its grandeur, lavishly appointed rooms, hospitable staff and delectable cuisine. The Leela Palace, Udaipur is a beautiful property in the city of lakes with an opulent presence on Lake Pichola. Situated on a cliff and overlooking the immaculate beaches, The Leela, Kovalam provides breathtaking views of its natural surroundings and a popular choice for luxury travelers while in South India. The more recently added The Leela Palace, Chennai is a crown jewel of the South. A luxurious experience!!

Tree of Life SPA and Resort nestled in the Aravalli hills in Jaipur, is perfect escape from the outside world. The resort is built with indigenous material using local techniques and ornamental styles, and yet it offers the best in modern comforts to date. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers who want to indulge in SPA therapies and want the very best in personal service that the flawless team at the resort is geared to offer. A multitude of activities are yours to pick as you get ready for a memorable experience at the Tree of Life!! The immaculate Villas with private pools, gardens and massage beds present a unique opportunity to rejuvenate or indulge in romance!!

Kerala – often called the God’s own country – is a popular tourist destination housing some of the most unique hotels and resorts set around virgin beaches, heritage surroundings and abundant wildlife, allowing an opportunity to immerse in the essence of India with nature. Brunton Boatyard in Fort Cochin used to be a shipbuilding yard with Victorian architecture, which now verbalizes the old tales with modern amenities. Spice Village in Periyar introduces its visitors to an abode of green surroundings with elaborate flora and fauna to entice the patrons. Kumarakom Lake Resort on the banks of Lake Vembanad in Kottayam is gorgeously set around the backwaters offering luxury amenities in a fine heritage property. Yet another distinguished luxury resort & SPA on the same lake is The Zuri Kumarakom, with Indian-style rooms, private gardens & pools. A stirring experience!!

Vivanta by Taj in Bekal, inspired by the nature, myths, traditions and culture of its land, is ideal to get respite from the world outside. Niraamaya – Surya Samudra, Kovalam is a luxury heritage resort with a difference, where the lush greens and the blues of the ocean blend effortlessly with the interiors. The conventional Kerala-styled cottages put forward the old world charm with modern comforts. Devonshire Greens is a colonial-styled property, celebrating the essence of Munnar with its background of tea gardens, waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries and mountain mist. House Boat Experience of Kerala is as exotic as the land itself – it is the talk of the luxury travel circuits across the world. The Kettuvallam (traditional name for the houseboat) is the best way to explore the emerald green backwaters and the many unique ways of life in the God’s own country! An unforgettable experience!!

There are many more hotels to experience in India. The Taj Mahal Palace of Mumbai overlooks the legendary Gateway of India and speaks for its warm hospitality and rich history of the city. The Windflower, Pondicherry, is a beach resort with lavish French windows and majestic settings. ITC Gardenia is a luxury hotel in Bangalore, embodying the grandeur of nature. ITC Maratha in Mumbai is complete with Maharastrian hospitality, all the modern day amenities and rich history. ITC Kakatiya in Hyderabad signifies the opulence of the Telugu grandeur, overlooking the magnificent Hussain Sagar Lake. The Oberoi Grand at Kolkata is over a 100 year old luxury property with architecture inspired by the colonial Bengal. Raas in Jodhpur is a fine example of the Rajput architecture and their legendary hospitality. The Serai in Jaisalmer is one of the finest luxury desert camps which offer the perfect opportunity for guests to explore the golden surroundings as they chill out in the lap of luxury. Devi Garh by Lebua in Udaipur is a majestic heritage hotel, housed in an 18th century palace on a hill-top. Many experiences in one land!!

The country boast of some of the finest wildlife resorts. Mahua Kothi, Banjara Tola and Bhagvan, of Taj Safaries, all in Madhya Pradesh in central India, are distinct jungle lodges with a balance of land’s rural architecture and modern day facilities merging to lure its guests. Orange County resort in Kabini in Karnataka, is where one can discover the ways of life of the local tribes, wildlife and nature. The Serai in Kabini is an awe-inspiring jungle lodge offering luxurious cottages abundant with greenery. A rustic experience!!

Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is the definite answer to the luxury travellers, seeking the Perfect Romantic Getaway. Set amidst Lake Pichola – a glimpse of its breathtaking sight is enough to make you desire it. The Palace is accessible only by private boats and it trails of heritage, royal lifestyle and traditions hidden behind its majestic appearance. Taj Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad is indescribable in its beauty and beyond imagination in its European décor. This luxury palace-hotel has won appreciation from the guests all over the world for its grandeur and the royal experience it presents in this former residence of the Nizam of Hyderabad. Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is a great example of a mix of styles in architecture and is the essence of the royal palaces of Rajasthan. A lifetime experience!!

Visiting Jaipur

Jaipur city was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II of Amber who ruled from 1699–1744. The construction of the city started in 1727. It took around four years to complete the major palaces, roads and square. The city was built following the principles of Shilpa Shastra, the science of Indian Architecture. The city was divided into nine blocks based on the anatomy of the human body, two of which contain the state buildings and palaces, with the remaining seven allotted to the public. Huge fortification walls were built along with seven strong gates. During the regime of Sawai Ram Singh, the whole city was painted pink to welcome Prince Edward of Wales (who later became King Edward VII). Today, avenues remain painted in pink, giving this famed city its distinctive appearance – a pink hue that is resplendent of their hospitality.

The city is remarkable among pre-modern Indian cities for the width and regularity of its streets which are laid out into six sectors separated by an elaborate road structure. The urban quarters are further divided by networks of gridded streets. Five quarters wrap around the east, south, and west sides of a central palace, with a sixth quarter immediately to the east. The Palace quarter encloses the sprawling Hawa Mahal palace complex, formal gardens, and a small lake. Nahargarh Fort, which was the residence of the King Sawai Jai Singh II, crowns the hill in the northwest corner of the old city. The observatory, Jantar Mantar, is one of the World Heritage Sites. Included on the Golden Triangle tourist circuit of the North, along with Delhi and Agra, Jaipur is an extremely popular tourist destination in Rajasthan and India.

Sightseeing, Shopping and Eating in Jaipur — Suggestions and Options

Go sightseeing in Jaipur. Start with the old part of the city which tells the tales of great wars, the stories of royal romances and the intricately etched yester years in its every corner. From Panch Batti circle and the old world Raj Mandir cinema, head along M.I. Road, the main thoroughfare. Continue along M.I. Road, and you’ll come across the pink walls of the Jaipur Old City on your left. There are three gates, spaced around 500 meters apart, which provide entry into the Old City. The first one is Ajmeri Gate, followed by New Gate, and lastly Sanganeri Gate.

The Old City is surprisingly well laid out, with its wide, straight streets running in a grid which forms a series of bazaars. Make a photo-stop at Hawa Mahal, which was constructed for ventilation for the women who used to watch the royal march through the screens of this building. This was built by the poet-king Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799.

Visit the Amber Fort, which is known as one of the most fascinating of the Indian forts which includes an amazing set of palaces, temples, gardens and halls. The Shila Mata temple has a great religious importance. If you want to tread up the fort on elephant back, rather suggest you start here early in the morning. Other attractions include Diwan-e-Aam, Sukh Niwas, Jas Mandir and Sheesh Mahal, all of which gives a glimpse into the majesty of days gone by. Do stop at Artchill – showcasing Indian art.

Enjoy a photo-stop at Jal Mahal, the monsoon palace of the Jaipur Maharajas, located in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake. Proceed to City Palace, where several courtyards and gardens provide wonderful contrast to its many palatial structures including Mubarak Mahal, Chandra Mahal, Badal Mahal and the Sri Govind Dev temple. Also visit Jantar Mantar- the Observatory, a world heritage site. This wonderful astronomical observatory is famous throughout the world and bears the hallmark of exceptional astronomical development of the medieval period.

Other sights worth seeing in Jaipur include:

Albert Museum

BM Birla Planetarium

Galtaji

Laxmi Narayan Temple

Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh

Nahargarh Fort (spectacular sunset)

Jaigarh Fort

Gaitore

Shopping experience in Jaipur can give you an insight in the contrast of old bazaars and modern high end shops of the city. The local ‘Kundan jewelry’ is famous for the intricate work as much as the ‘Navratan jewelry’ (9 stones) that is believed to bring good luck to the users. The exotic blue pottery, the batik work and block printed textiles of Sanganer and Bagru, tie & dye fabrics, Mojaris (the local shoes), sandal wood carving items, beautiful stone carvings etc. An entire street and several city sectors were earmarked for artisans and traders in the past, and they continue to display their rich heritage to this day.

Near the Hawa Mahal are many shops dealing in pseudo-antiques and souvenirs. Some shops opposite Hawa Mahal stock the famous Jaipuri quilts, weighing from a few hundred grams to some kilograms. Nehru Bazaar, situated on the road between Ajmeri Gate and New Gate, is a favorite with the women of Jaipur. Many shops here are selling bright colored fabrics, shoes, trinkets and local perfumes. Bapu Bazaar lies on the road between New Gate and Sanganeri Gate, many shops here sell ethnic and modern clothes, copper utensils and patch-work bags that are famous with locals and tourists alike. Keep an eye out for the marvelously huge banyan tree on the right of this bazaar with its massive intertwined branches.

Stroll along and browse through the shops at Johari Bazaar. If the jewels at the high-end stores were a little out of your taste, you might find other options here that are more pocket-suitable. Johari Bazaar and the lanes that run off it are known for gold and silver jewelery, as well as inexpensive costume jewelry and bangles.

For an unforgettable shopping experience:

Ramganj Bazar for shoes or jootis (local styled shoes)

Kishanpol Bazar for tie and dye textiles

Maniharon Ka Rasta (Tripolia Bazar) for bangles and other items

Emporiums for hand-made rugs and carpets

Khajano Ka Rasta for marble carving

Sanganer village for block printing and hand-made paper

Blue pottery manufacturing units

Eating out in Jaipur can leave your heart & stomach filled with the unforgettable aroma of the delicacies of the Rajasthani cuisine and the local flavoring spices. The capital of Rajput kings had an impressive array of mouth-watering delights, kept closely guarded by the royal chefs. Legends tell tales of cooks trying to impress their guests by presenting at least one unforgettable item on the menu. The royal guests were served savory dishes made from stuffed camels, goats, pigs and peacocks. The food was served in gold and silver utensils, with a display of heartwarming hospitality that surpasses every imagination. Jaipur is famous for its Dal-Batti Churma, Mawa Kachori, Mirchi Bada, Rajasthani Subjis, Ghewar, Feeni, Gajak, Chauguni ke laddu and different kinds of Rajasthani breads.

You can visit Laxmi Mishtan Bhandar, a very popular food joint as it is easily affordable and serves famous local snacks and sweet dishes – such as mouth watering Raj Kachori and Rasmalai. It is situated in the busy market of Johari Bazaar and serves other authentic Rajasthani specialties too.

Chokhi Dhani is one of the most popular places to sample traditional food, and of course, a slice of true Rajasthani culture. Enjoy camel rides and traditional performances or splurge in the in-house flea-market. This village-style restaurant serves authenticRajasthani cuisine in an authentic ambiance with is several course fixed menu.

Pamper your taste buds at Handi Restaurant, on M.I. Road, which specializes in Non-vegetarian biryanis, curries and tandoori items. The atmosphere is great aligned by traditional interiors and a matching decor. Nearby Copper Chimney restaurant is a chic, elegant place with a friendly waiters’ army and a rollicking horse mural to compliment the decor. It offers vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian food as well as a small selection of Continental and Chinese food. Indian wines are available to accompany the exquisite food, flattering the taste and the aromas.

Spice Court is a relaxed clubhouse restaurant, with a blue-tiled roof and a splendid evening courtyard, the food is fresh, the kitchen spotless, and the kebab platters are a serious business. Folk dancers play perfect companions to the tasteful display of dishes that leave gastronomes asking for more. Choose to order as per your preferences rather than opting for the buffet.

Last but not the least, there are several houses and havelis offering you a flavour of royalty, by giving you an opportunity to dine with a royal family, witnessing the authentic royal hospitality, listen to their tales and savor culinary specialties that have traveled several generations. Not a difficult possibility is to a cooking demo.

Udaipur is one of the most famous historical places of Rajasthan in Western India. This city is also known as The City of Lakes. Udaipur was founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh II as the final capital of the erstwhile Mewar kingdom. Legend has it that Maharana Udai Singh II came upon a hermit while hunting in the foothills of the Aravali Range. The hermit blessed the king and asked him to build a palace on the spot, assuring him it would be well protected. Maharana Udai Singh II consequently established a residence on this site. In 1568, the Mughal emperor Akbar captured the fort of Chittor, and Udai Singh moved the Mewar capital to this very site of his residence which became the city of Udaipur.

Udaipur became a princely state of British India in the year of 1818. As the Mughal empire weakened, th Sisodia Ranas, and later Maharanas also called Suryavanshi (descendants of Sun God), who had always tried to oppose Mughal dominance, reasserted their independence and recaptured most of Mewar except for Chittor. Udaipur remained the capital of the state. Udaipur is also recognized for its palaces and vistas. These palaces are the symbols of romance, war, architecture, and the history of mankind.

Most Romantic City of India

Udaipur, also known as the Venice of The East, is the most awe-inspiring destination in India, its rich history and heritage is befitting its picturesque setting. Founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559, it has many manmade lakes and palaces, and fondly referred to as Rajasthan’s most romantic city. Udaipur combines traditional beauty with scenic surroundings and association with a glorious past. It stands in a valley, amidst green hills, on the banks of the wide, steel-blue Lake Pichola. Marble palaces rise from little islands in the lake, merging in the blue skies. The Maharana’s palace crowns the ridge on which the city clusters. Udaipur is replete with fantastic hill top fortresses, exotic fairy tale palaces and gripping legends of medieval chivalry and heroism. Udaipur rivals any of the world’s famous creations of the Mughals with the Rajput love of the whimsical!!

Sightseeing, shopping and eating in Udaipur- Suggestions and Options:

Go sightseeing in Udaipur. Start your exciting journey at Lake Pichola. This is the famous lake in Udaipur, where Taj Lake Palace is situated. The Lake palace covers an entire island in Lake Pichola. Many of the old palaces have been converted into plush arenas, providing ideal setting for travelers to luxuriate and enjoy hotel’s hospitality. You can witness the magnificent beauty of the lake, enjoy a boat ride and let the exotic warmth of the place seep into your senses.

Visit City Palace, which is a conglomeration of buildings added to by various Maharanas; despite this, the palace manages to retain a surprising uniformity of design. The entrance is through Hathi Pol along the main street of the old city, past the Jagdish Temple. The Mor-Chowk (Peacock courtyard), gets its name from the mosaics in glass decorating its walls. The China chitrashala is noteworthy while a series of wall paintings of lord Krishna are on display in Bhim Vilas. There are numerous other places such as Dilkhush Mahal, Sheesh Mahal and Moti Mahal. The Krishna Vilas reminds of the Princess of striking beauty who poisoned herself to avert a bloody battle for her hand by rival Prince. The paintings, mosaics, intricately carved chhatris and the architecturally brilliant façade, all contribute to make a visit to the City Palace a truly memorable experience.

Visit the Crystal Gallery, located in the Fateh Prakash Palace—it contains a rare collection of Osler’s crystal ordered from England by Maharana Sajjan Singh in 1877. Take a stroll through Sahelion Ki Bari (Garden of the Maids). You can also visit Swaroop Sagar, Udai Sagar and Fateh Sagar lakes in this ‘City of Lakes’.

Other Sights in Udaipur include:

Bagor ki haveli

Nehru park

Jain temple

Dudh Talai

Sajjangarh fort & wildlife sanctuary

Ahar Museum

Bhartiya Lok kala Mandir

Shopping experience in Udaipur

Being an important city of Rajasthan and India as well, Udaipur has the tints of bright colors and you can certainly discover these gorgeous hues in every corner of its lively markets. Udaipur has myriad number of small shops, big showrooms and roadside stalls that would offer you an extensive variety to choose from.

Udaipur offers an exquisite range of handicrafts and souvenirs to the travelers. These items range from hand-made toys, colorful puppets, intricate wall hangings, wooden pen stands and quills, beautiful cloth lanterns, handmade papers, etc. There is also an assortment of pottery that can be availed in both metal and mud. Pottery covers all kinds of pots, plates, vessels and different kinds of containers. Apart from this, brassware and terracotta sculptures are also popular. Regarding clothes, you can grab traditional clothes in batik and hand prints. Dyed saris and textile are also famous among the tourists. Silver jewelry is the main attraction and there is much to choose from to complete your ensembles. Around the streets of City Palace, you will find ethnic miniature paintings that are made in the creative style of the Mewar School of Art.

Coming to the Bazaars, Hathi Pol, Bada Bazaar, Chetak Circle, Bada Bazaar and Palace Road are some of the popular shopping arcades of Udaipur. Also, emporiums like Rajasthali and Sadhna offer a variety of products under a single roof; you will get the quality products at a fixed price here. However, the real charm of shopping comes in exploring the streets of Udaipur bargaining with the local vendors. So, while touring Udaipur take out some time to shop in the vibrant markets of Udaipur.

Eating Out in Udaipur

Udaipur offers exotic and mouth watering array of cuisines, for both vegetarian and non vegetarian gastronomes. Influenced by Vaishnavism, Udaipur cuisine is primarily debarred of non-vegetarian dishes. Udaipur is famous for its Dal-Baati-Churma, Gatte-Ki-Sabzi, Kachori and Mirchi Bada. Meals are usually comprised of lentils, vegetables and a fantastic variety of spices to pamper your taste buds. Lentil curries, yoghurt soups with deep fried breads and chilli fritters complete the feast. Okra, dried mango and Sangri (thin beans) go together with most of the dishes.

However, for people who love non-vegetarian food, there are many restaurants that can surprise the visitors with their offerings. There is a strong presence of multi-cuisine restaurants that provide cuisine to suit every palette – ranging from Chinese and Thai to Continental and Italian food.

Submerge in the essence of India with the magnificent Udaivilas. Winner of several awards, Udaivilas, offers fine international cuisine, authentic flavors of Rajasthan or an option to enjoy a quiet drink, all presented with views of the City Palace and Lake Pichola. The atmosphere helps you unwind appropriately in the lap of luxury as you savor mouth watering delicacies.

Taj Lake Palace’s fantastic location complements sublime cuisine in exquisite restaurants. Asian, Indian, Contemporary Western, Italian dishes and cocktails are all taken to the highest level in the hands of their master chefs. Resident Guests can choose a restaurant by the lily pond, poolside or on the rooftop. Royal butlers are on hand to arrange a private table anywhere that suits guest preference.

The open air Sheesh Mahal Restaurant at The Leela Palace, Udaipur, provides a perfect setting for a romantic meal under the stars. Feast on the exquisite local flavors served with legendary hospitality reminiscent of the great and vibrant past of the Indian Royalty.

Among the various restaurants, Savage Garden is very atmospheric, with indigo walls and tables in alcoves or in a pleasant courtyard. The food served here consists of Mediterranean cuisine with Italian and Middle Eastern influences. There are many Rooftop Restaurants, housed in small heritage hotels around Lake Pichola that offer a panoramic view of the city and serve a range of cuisines, matched with pleasant service and great hospitality.

The restaurant at the Jagmandir Island Palace is beautifully decorated and the setting is exquisite. An enthralling boat trip is just the beginning to reach here. Once on the island, enjoy delicious array of cuisine in the indoor air-conditioned restaurant on the water edge, glimpsing the palaces shimmering in Lake Pichola. Superb curries accompanied by a collection of wines, lend a Royal Touch to this gourmet experience.

It is advisable to book beforehand to ensure that the amazing dining experiences in Udaipur don’t elude you.